APES Unit 5A Agriculture

Front

What is the tragedy of the commons in relation to marine fisheries?

Back

The tragedy of the commons refers to the over-exploitation of shared resources, such as marine fisheries, due to individuals acting in their own self-interest. In marine fisheries, this is exacerbated by the fact that fish are highly migratory and do not belong to any one nation, leading to unsustainable fishing practices.

Front

What was the Green Revolution?

Back

The Green Revolution refers to a period of agricultural transformation that began in the mid-20th century, characterized by the increased use of pesticides, herbicides, monoculture, and machinery to boost crop yields and food production.

Front

What are the disadvantages of monocropping?

Back

Disadvantages of monocropping include soil erosion due to large areas being exposed, increased vulnerability to pests due to high crop concentration, and loss of habitat for natural pest predators. However, a similarity in nutrition and pesticide needs is not a disadvantage.

Front

What is contour plowing?

Back

Contour plowing is an agricultural practice where plowing is done parallel to the contours of the land, which helps to reduce soil erosion by following the natural shape of the land.

Front

What is waterlogging in agriculture?

Back

Waterlogging occurs when soil becomes saturated with water, often due to over-irrigation, leading to the death of plant roots due to lack of oxygen.

Front

Define monoculture.

Back

Monoculture is the agricultural practice of growing a single crop species over a wide area for many consecutive years, which can lead to reduced biodiversity and increased pest problems.

Front

What is salinization?

Back

Salinization is the accumulation of soluble salts in soil, often due to excessive irrigation, which can lead to reduced agricultural productivity.

Front

What is agroforestry?

Back

Agroforestry is a land management system that combines agriculture and forestry practices to create more sustainable and productive land-use systems.

Front

What are the benefits of crop rotation?

Back

Crop rotation helps to improve soil health, reduce pest and disease buildup, and enhance biodiversity by alternating the types of crops grown in a particular area.

Front

What is integrated pest management (IPM)?

Back

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an ecological approach to pest control that combines biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools to minimize economic, health, and environmental risks.